UJA-Federation NY Makes $10m Available for Hurricane Relief

New York, New York – November 5, 2012 – UJA-Federation of New York announced today it has authorized $10 million in funds for the organization’s front-line network agencies, as well as synagogues and Jewish day schools, as they provide direct care and support in communities impacted by Hurricane Sandy. The decision was approved unanimously by the organization’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors late Sunday.

To help finance this relief effort, UJA-Federation has opened the Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund, which is receiving donations from within and beyond the UJA-Federation service area of New York City, Long Island and Westchester County.

Immediately following the storm, UJA-Federation’s beneficiary agencies and synagogues moved into action, responding to emergencies in local communities impacted by Hurricane Sandy. Professionals engaged in door-to-door checks on stranded elderly. They are offering food, water and warm shelter to people trapped in apartments and homes without power, water and vital services; providing cash assistance where needed; and helping with relocation where possible. Childcare was offered while schools were closed so that adults could attend to securing their homes or begin the process of restoration without worrying about their children’s safety. Elderly were given warm meals and emotional support. Respite and legal services are being provided, even as those agency facilities incurred storm damage or power losses.

The Educational Alliance and the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty have employees going door to door, day and night, to check on the most at-risk seniors and others in the community who are without power and trapped because of limited mobility. Temple Beth El of Northern Westchester is serving as a community shelter at night for those who need it, as most members of the community are without power.

UJA-Federation encourages those who would like to volunteer their time to assist the victims to go to volunteer opportunities for a list of volunteer opportunities.  Those who would like to donate to the Hurricane Sandy Relief Funds can do so here: Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund. 100% of funds raised will be used to provide support to agencies and communities that have been impacted by the devastation. No administrative costs will be applied.